The effect of Nano clay and coupling agent on the physical and mechanical properties of polypropylene waste paper composites

In this study, the effect of nanoclay particles and coupling agent on the physical and mechanical properties of polypropylene / waste paper composites was studied. To meet this objectives, waste paper fibers with polypropylene in 50% by weight, nanoclay (0, 2 and 4%) and coupling agent (0 and 3%) were compounded in an internal mixer at 155°C and 60rmp and the samples were prepared by injection molding. The results showed that the physical and mechanical strength of composite improved in the presence of coupling agent. As well as water absorption, thickness swelling, flexural and tensile strength and flexural and tensile modulus, were improved by increasing of nanoclay particles content, however notched impact strength was reduced. Also, study on structural behavior of composite with x-ray diffraction showed that nanoclay distributed as intercalation structure in polymer matrix, and distance between layers were increased with increasing of nanoclay particles content.